Long Beach tech leader Eriksen joins Culver City

The City of Long Beach’s technology director Lea Eriksen will leave her post next month to take up a senior leadership role with Culver City, after serving the Californian city since 2014.

During her leadership of the Department of Technology and Innovation (TID), Long Beach’s technology function evolved from a traditional IT service provider into a strategic partner supporting departments across the city.

“I’m most proud of how our team transformed technology from a back-office service into a strategic partner that helps solve real community challenges,” Eriksen told Cities Today.

The department now oversees nearly 200 staff and an annual budget of about US$90 million, delivering infrastructure, cybersecurity and digital service programmes across municipal operations.

Major projects during this period included an US$80 million technology infrastructure modernisation programme and support for 19 information technology tracks within the city’s US$900 million Civic Center redevelopment project.

Community-focused digital initiatives also expanded during this time. Programmes such as the Digital Inclusion Initiative, Digital Rights platform, LB Co-Lab and Love Your Block were developed to improve internet access, build trust in digital services and involve residents more directly in shaping civic technology projects.

“Together we advanced digital equity, strengthened cybersecurity and data transparency, and engaged residents directly in designing technology solutions for their neighbourhoods,” she said.

The city’s technology strategy received sustained national recognition during this period. Long Beach secured five consecutive No.1 Digital City rankings in its population category and was named a Digital Inclusion Trailblazer for eight consecutive years. The city was also recognised in the AI 50 for advancing responsible artificial intelligence adoption.

“That recognition reflects the hard work of the amazing team in the Technology & Innovation Department and a culture of collaboration across the entire organisation,” she said. “Long Beach approaches technology through the lenses of equity, transparency and public trust, and staff across departments are willing to work together and experiment with new ideas to improve services for residents.”

Her new position will expand her responsibilities beyond technology and innovation, allowing her to work across a broader portfolio of city services.

“The Senior Assistant City Manager role provides an opportunity to broaden my scope of service and apply my experience in finance, technology and strategy across the full range of city operations,” she said. “Culver City is a vibrant, engaged community with a strong sense of identity and purpose. I look forward to listening, learning and working alongside residents, businesses and staff to ensure public services reflect community values and enhance everyday life.”